He polled 212 votes across the Ryobi Cup — he was also crowned one-day player of the year — and the Sheffield Shield campaigns, edging out youngster Sam Rainbird (199 votes) and spinner Xavier Doherty (153).

Gulbis’s stunning innings in the final Shield game of the year against South Australia, where he scored 229 to register an Australian first-class record batting at No.8, saw him overtake Rainbird, although the left-arm quick won the David Boon medal as Shield player of the year.

“It has been fantastic since I’ve been here. The opportunity Tassie cricket has given me has been amazing and I’ve really enjoyed every minute of it,’’ Gulbis said.

“I hope my performances can repay what they have given me.

“I never thought I would play state cricket, obviously playing in Melbourne for a long time, I never thought I would get the opportunity.

“It’s a bit wow at the moment.

“This place has given me something I never thought I would have and I’m one of those people who would love to play my career here.

“Hopefully this helps go towards that.”

Gulbis’s win also ended the streak of Australian all-rounder James Faulkner, who had won three straight Ricky Ponting medals.

For Rainbird, who was the Tigers equal leading wicket taker for the Shield season with Doherty with 27, snaring the David Boon medal capped a rise from fringe squad quick to strike bowler.

The Clarence left-armer admitted his breakthrough haul of 6-68 against NSW in the opening round of the season, which included the prized scalp of Test skipper Michael Clarke, gave him the confidence that he could compete at first class level.

Sam Rainbird is absolutely rapt at receiving the David Boon medal.Source: News Limited

“I didn’t expect it, coming into the season I was happy to get a game and try to cement my spot in the team,’’ said Rainbird, who was also named the Jamie Cox male young player of the year.

“To do this is I’m absolutely rapt and it’s beyond my wildest expectations.

“Going into the game [against the Blues] you are still questioning whether you are good enough because you haven’t had a massive performance at that level.

“To take those six wickets, it was a massive confidence boost to realise I was good enough to do this.”

Roar captain Veronica Pyke produced a clean sweep of the female awards, winning the WNCL, T20 and overall player of the year honours.